If you walked into EPCOT at Disney World today, you probably noticed something new. And by new, we mean a 14-foot-tall lamp that definitely wasn’t there yesterday.
What Just Appeared at EPCOT
Disney installed a massive Genie’s lamp from Broadway’s Aladdin overnight at EPCOT. This isn’t a replica or a festival decoration. It’s the actual lamp that usually sits on top of the New Amsterdam Theatre marquee in New York City.
The lamp is positioned across the walkway from CommuniCore Hall and Plaza, right where guests can’t miss it. At 14 feet tall and weighing 1,200 pounds, it’s pretty hard to overlook.
When this lamp is at its home theater in NYC, it spins on the marquee and periodically releases smoke to make it look like Genie is inside. The detail work is impressive too. The intricate pattern carvings match exactly what’s used in the actual stage production of Aladdin.
Why It’s at Disney World
The lamp’s appearance ties directly into tomorrow’s opening of the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. The festival runs from January 16 through February 23 and celebrates all forms of art, including visual, performing, and culinary arts.
One of the festival’s biggest draws is the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, which brings performers from Disney’s stage productions to EPCOT. This year’s lineup includes six first-time performers alongside returning favorites. They’ll be singing songs from shows like The Lion King, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and more throughout the festival.
Having the actual Broadway lamp at EPCOT creates a physical connection between the performances and the theatrical productions they come from. It’s not just about watching talented singers. It’s about experiencing the artistry that goes into creating these shows.
The Broadway and Disney World Connection
The lamp was originally designed by Bob Crowley and built by NPARALLEL and Atomic Props. It was unveiled in March 2024 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Aladdin on Broadway. Now it’s making a special appearance in Central Florida for the festival.
Inside CommuniCore Hall, guests can check out Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of Disney on Broadway. This is an updated version of an exhibit that started last year. It features authentic props and costumes from Broadway productions, including The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.
The exhibit includes photo opportunities and behind-the-scenes information about how these productions are created. For people who love theater, it’s a chance to see the kind of detail that normally only shows from the audience.
The Concert Lineup
This year’s Disney on Broadway Concert Series is bringing some serious talent to EPCOT. New performers include Isabelle McCalla, Sierra Boggess, Anastacia McCleskey, Ainsley Melham, Susan Egan, and James Monroe Iglehart. They’ll be joined by returning artists like Adam Jacobs, Michael James Scott, Josh Strickland, Mandy Gonzalez, Kissy Simmons, and Ashley Brown.
The performances are scheduled throughout the festival, with different pairings performing on different dates. The festival ends with a special showcase on February 22 and 23 featuring Ashley Brown, Ainsley Melham, Susan Egan, and James Monroe Iglehart all performing together.
For guests who want guaranteed seating, Disney is offering dining packages that pair meals at various EPCOT restaurants with priority seating for the concerts. There are 15 different dining options available.
What Else Might Be Coming to Disney World
The appearance of this massive lamp raises questions about whether Disney will add more Broadway-themed props to the area before the festival officially starts tomorrow. EPCOT typically goes big for Festival of the Arts with installations, living statues, and interactive art throughout the park.
Adding more theatrical elements would fit perfectly with the Broadway theme and give guests even more photo opportunities.
Festival Details
The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts starts January 16 and runs through February 24. Besides the Broadway performances and exhibit, the festival features special food booths throughout World Showcase, art installations, and various other performances.
If you’re planning to visit, the Genie’s lamp is located across from CommuniCore Hall and Plaza. It’s definitely worth checking out in person, especially if you’re a fan of Broadway or just appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into creating these theatrical pieces.
The festival officially opens tomorrow, so this is just the beginning of what EPCOT has planned for the next several weeks.
